Notes from the Nursery – Winter 2023
But when you look at your small yard or start looking into everyone’s favorite subject, zoning regulations, you might find that your own magical greenhouse isn’t feasible. Such is life. But don’t let that stop you! There is plenty of hope for people who want to propagate more plants without a greenhouse.
One of our nursery volunteers, I’ll use the pseudonym Ned Hall to protect the identity of a fellow plant propagator, comes in each week and while helping out, he learns little propagation techniques he can use at home. Ned has used small hoops to make small cold frames to extend the season for cool season crops. He has started succulents from leaves that have fallen off mature plants in the nursery, and even taken the cuttings from coleus that we pinched back in late winter to start his own crop at home.
“THIS IS THE TIME OF THE YEAR TO GET EXCITED ABOUT PROPAGATING PLANTS.”
Much of our nursery propagation and growing at Yew Dell happens outside in the summer, and without a greenhouse. Dividing a clump of perennials in late winter can pay big dividends. A tiny division given a good potting mix, ample water, and fertilizer, will grow much faster in a container than just being plopped back into a garden bed. But you can simply divide and replant right away and still have excellent results.
Whether it’s starting veggies inside under lights in winter or dividing perennials to build your garden, it’s all about growing more plants – with or without a greenhouse!
